April is officially Testicular Cancer Awareness Month – your personal reminder to get familiar with your body and make the self-exam part of your routine.
The goal is simple: break the stigma with straightforward, life-saving advice.
Let’s be real: most men don’t spend much time thinking about their testicles unless they’re, well, in the way. But here’s something worth your attention – testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 15 to 35.
The good news? When caught early, it’s also one of the most treatable and curable cancers. And the most effective tool isn’t high-tech – it’s a simple self-check you can do in the shower in just two minutes.
Why the Shower?
A warm shower isn’t just about getting clean. Heat relaxes the scrotum and surrounding muscles, making it easier to feel any changes in the testicles. It’s the ideal time to check for anything unusual.
The 3-Step Self-Exam Guide
You don’t need medical training – just follow this simple method once a month:
The Roll
Place your index and middle fingers underneath the testicle and your thumbs on top. Gently roll it between your fingers.
The Feel
You’re checking for any lumps, bumps, or firm areas. A healthy testicle should feel smooth, oval-shaped, and slightly firm – similar to a hard-boiled egg without the shell.
The Anatomy Check
At the back of each testicle, you’ll feel a soft, tube-like structure. This is the epididymis, which stores sperm. It’s completely normal – learning how it feels will help you avoid mistaking it for something concerning.
Pro tip: Check one at a time. It’s normal for one testicle to sit lower or be slightly larger. What matters is noticing any changes over time.
What Should You Look For?
If you notice any of the following, it’s important to get checked by a specialist:
- A painless lump (even very small)
- Swelling or a sudden increase in size
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- A dull ache in the groin or lower abdomen
Important: Testicular cancer often doesn’t cause pain in its early stages. A painless lump is not something to ignore.
Don’t Let Embarrassment Delay You
It’s completely normal to feel hesitant about discussing this, but urologists deal with these concerns every day. Early assessment is quick, straightforward, and often involves a simple ultrasound.
Finding something unusual doesn’t automatically mean cancer – but it does mean it’s worth checking.
Make It a Habit
- Check: Take two minutes in the shower once a month
- Track: Set a reminder on your phone
- Share: Let friends or family know – awareness matters
If something feels different or “off,” don’t wait. Acting early is the best way to protect your health and peace of mind.
Contact Us
Dr. Arianayagam is an expert in urological cancer surgery and the treatment of urological conditions. He is one of the most experienced cancer surgeons in Sydney.
After training in NSW, further training in Urologic Oncology was undertaken at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. He completed a two-year fellowship accredited by the Society of Urologic Oncology.
If you have any further questions about urological health or would like to book an appointment, please feel free to call.
